Tarsiers rescued during Sarangani flood returned to wild

At least three Philippine tarsiers rescued from a riverbank in Alabel, Sarangani amid rising floodwaters have been released back into the wild.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-SOCCSKSARGEN (DENR-12), a couple rescued the tarsiers after fearing the animals might be swept away by rising floodwaters along the riverbank on Monday, July 13, 2026.

The couple kept the tarsiers before turning them over to the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Sarangani the next day.

Based on examination, the tarsiers were identified as two adult male and one sub-adult male Philippine tarsiers.

The PENRO veterinarian found that all three are in good health with no visible injuries or signs of distress.

The tarsiers were released into a suitable forest habitat later that day.

"The Philippine Tarsier is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Its population continues to face threats from habitat loss, human disturbance, and illegal wildlife trade," DENR-12 said.

DENR-12 reiterated its warning against the collection, hunting, possession, transport, and trade of wildlife, as these are violations of the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147).

The public is also urged to report immediately any wildlife sighting or rescued animals to authorities. — VDV, GMA News